12 Candy Flavors from the Past That Were Surprisingly Popular
From spicy cloves to delicate violets, these unexpected candy flavors from the past reveal a surprising and deliciously quirky side of sweet history.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
Candy flavors have come and gone, but some of the most surprising tastes from the past reveal just how adventurous and diverse our sweet tooth once was. From floral violets to smoky molasses and spicy cloves, these forgotten flavors tell stories of culture, tradition, and unexpected cravings. Exploring these nostalgic treats gives us a tasty glimpse into the evolving world of confectionery and the surprising flavors that once captivated candy lovers everywhere.
1. Clove
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Yes, clove — the same stuff your grandma used in holiday ham — was once a hit flavor in American candy. Clove gum, like the one made by Beemans and later revived by nostalgia brands, had a spicy kick that lingered long after chewing. It was oddly comforting, like licking a spice rack but in a good way.
2. Violet
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Violet candies, especially the iconic Choward’s Violet Mints, were all the rage mid-20th century. Their floral taste felt like eating perfume, but somehow, that was part of the charm. People loved the elegant, almost ethereal vibe they gave off — think of them as the Bridgerton of old-school sweets.
3. Horehound
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This bitter, licorice-like herb found its way into countless cough drops and old-fashioned candies. Horehound was often touted for its medicinal benefits, which made it a go-to for kids with colds and grandpas who swore by it. Flavor-wise, it was an acquired taste — but once acquired, it stuck for life.
4. Sassafras
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Before root beer became its bubbly self, sassafras was a beloved flavor all on its own. Old-fashioned sassafras sticks were chewed like candy, and some early sodas used it as a base. It had an earthy sweetness, like sipping on the essence of a forest trail.
5. Rose
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Rose-flavored candy sounds romantic today, but it was once just another staple in the confectionery world. Found in Turkish Delight and old European bonbons, its floral, slightly fruity flavor was both delicate and decadent. For many immigrants, it tasted like home.
6. Anise
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Anise, the flavor behind black licorice, had a die-hard following even as it divided palates. It featured heavily in vintage candies like licorice pipes and pastilles, especially among European communities. Love it or loathe it, its sharp, herbal profile had staying power.
7. Wintergreen
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Distinct from mint, wintergreen has a sweet, cooling taste that was especially popular in pink Canada Mints. Its unique, almost creamy mouthfeel sets it apart from other mints. There’s something nostalgic about its chalky texture and that first cool rush.
8. Molasses
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Before corn syrup dominated candy-making, molasses was the sweetener of choice. Its deep, smoky flavor appeared in classics like Mary Janes and old-timey taffy. It wasn’t just sweet — it was robust, sticky, and unforgettable.
9. Maple
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Maple wasn’t just for syrup in the 1900s — it was a full-on candy craze. From maple sugar candies to maple-flavored creams, its buttery richness made it a cozy favorite. Eating one felt like autumn in a bite, warm flannel included.
10. Licorice (Red and Black)
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Long before gummies dominated candy aisles, licorice ropes and twists reigned supreme. Black licorice came first, but red licorice (often strawberry-flavored) became a sweeter alternative for those who couldn’t stomach the real deal. Either way, a movie night wasn’t complete without a bag of the stuff.
11. Teaberry
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Teaberry was the star of a gum that tasted like a blend of mint and bubble gum. The flavor, though hard to pin down, had a gentle sharpness and a pink hue that made it feel playful. It was especially popular in the 1950s, often found in the pockets of dapper dads and pastel-pink purses.
12. Butterscotch
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Butterscotch isn’t just something your aunt kept in her purse — it was once the pinnacle of sophistication. Its rich, caramelized taste made it perfect for hard candies and puddings alike. For decades, it was the go-to flavor for an indulgent treat without being flashy.